Iya Falcone Sentenced for DUI

SANTA BARBARA – Former Santa Barbara City Councilwoman Iya Falcone was convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol Monday. Falcone’s attorney pleaded no contest on her behalf. But, because Falcone had a blood alcohol level three times the legal limit and is a public figure, she received an unusual sentence.Falcone was ordered to pay $2,500 in fines and court fees — $500 more than most DUI offenders. She also has to attend nine months of alcohol school — six months more than most offenders get. She is also required to attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings twice a week for 30 days. Because the judge considers her a public figure, Falcone is required to give four public lectures at schools or non profits about the dangers of driving under the influence.Falcone had a blood alcohol level of .24 and .23 on a second test two hours after she hit a parked car at the Mesa Shopping Center on September 19th. The legal limit is .08. Falcone’s attorney Sam Eaton refused to comment on the sentence. But, Falcone talked to KEY News hours after her arrest on drunk driving charges.Falcone said “I did have two glasses of wine and I take medications, they don’t mix… This is very unfortunate, I’m very sorry for those involved, it will never happen again.”Prosecutors say they have a receipt that shows Falcone bought a cocktail at 9:58 a.m. on September 19th at the Mesa Cafe. The accident happened less than a half hour later.The former city council member’s license was suspended. Falcone can apply for a restricted driver’s license in 30 days. Once she completes alcohol school, she can apply for a unrestricted license.